Orthopedic Coding: Make Use Of All Appropriate Icd-9 Codes

By Author: Julia Rose
Total Articles: 89
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If you think you can bill only one diagnosis code per claim, you are in the wrong. You'll do well to know how your ICD-9 codes can complete your patient's story and even boost your claim's success.


You must bill as many diagnosis codes as you need to establish medical necessity for the services you're billing.


But keep in mind that when reporting multiple diagnoses, you should report only the codes that apply to the situation at hand and those that may change the outcome of treatment. But note that all underlying conditions are not appropriate. For instance a patient has cold and cough but fell and fractured her ankle.


Tip: You need to reap the benefits of thorough coding. When you do so, not only will your claims look up but you can also bolster your bottom line.


To cite an example, when you submit two or more CPT procedure codes, having unique ICD-9 code(s) for each procedure will support medical necessity.


When you are reporting an E/M code, all your diagnoses will support the complexity of the encounter or increase the complexity ...
... of the medical decision-making component.
What's more, if you make use of modifier 22 (increased procedural services) on a surgical code, your ICD-9 codes can paint the picture of what led to the increased work. This will possibly help carriers reimburse your claim appropriately at the initial submission. However, you need an appeal letter documenting the rationale for this modifier.


For more of such tips on orthopedic coding, you can go for an orthopedic conference. In fact December 2009 will see an orthopedic coding conference taking place in Orlando, FL, which will certainly help you reap the benefits in your coding career.


Gain knowledge about medical coding by attending proper medical coding conferences along with premier coding experts, CDs, tapes and transcripts of coding training information by specialty.